PINCH ANALYSIS TODAY
What is Pinch Analysis?
Developed during the 1970s oil crisis, pinch analysis is a systematic method that helps engineers reduce the energy consumption of industrial processes and its associated emissions by providing insight into thermodynamic pinch points and inefficiencies.
Engineers apply pinch analysis to establish energy targets, define heat recovery opportunities, and identify efficient utility use including heat pumping.
Is Pinch Analysis Relevant Today?
Absolutely! Many industrial companies are experiencing steep increases in energy costs due to price inflation, higher ETS charges, or a switch to more expensive renewable fuels.
Much like the 1970s, today's energy transition challenges industry to think and act differently. Pinch analysis can support companies in making the right decisions to invest in new heat recovery, heat pumping, process technology and/or boiler plant.
What are the Barriers to Application?
In New Zealand, pinch analysis has significant potential to support the industrial energy transition; however, there are barriers to its use including a lack of awareness, lack of expertise, high cost of analysis, and perceived lack of suitability for a plant.
In collaboration with EECA and others, we aim to break down these barriers. Our short courses teach pinch analysis using industrial case studies and hands-on analysis approach. We also provide an open source pinch analysis spreadsheet toolkit and can provide support services to industry in developing energy transition solutions.